Key Points
- Ben Platt kicked off his 10‑night sold‑out residency at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles.
- The opening night marked his first solo concert in more than a year.
- Platt performed songs from Reverie and Honeymind, along with Broadway and pop covers.
- Josh Groban made an unannounced appearance, joining Platt for “What I Did For Love.”
- The residency runs through December 21 at the Center Theatre Group venue.
Platt Returns to His Roots With a Celebratory Opening Night
Ben Platt launched his highly anticipated hometown residency on Friday night, delivering a sold‑out performance at Los Angeles’ Ahmanson Theatre. For the Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award winner, the 10‑show run marks both a professional milestone and a deeply personal return to the stage where his career first began.
The evening also served as Platt’s first solo concert in over a year, and he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the audience for welcoming him back.
A Setlist Spanning Albums, Broadway, and Personal Moments
Platt curated a show that blended his musical evolution with nods to the theater world that shaped him. He performed selections from his albums Reverie and Honeymind, alongside Broadway standards and pop favorites — including covers of Joni Mitchell and Lady Gaga.
One of the night’s most emotional moments came when Platt performed “Before I Knew You,” dedicating the song to his husband.
The biggest surprise arrived when Josh Groban stepped onstage for his first-ever performance at the Ahmanson. The two powerhouse vocalists delivered a stirring duet of “What I Did For Love” from A Chorus Line, earning a standing ovation.
A Full-Circle Moment for the Los Angeles Native
For Platt, the residency represents a meaningful homecoming. He reminded the audience that his earliest professional performances took place on the same stage, making his return a moment of reflection and celebration.
Industry observers described the atmosphere as electric, with Platt’s connection to the crowd evident throughout the night. The show offered a welcome escape for attendees, fulfilling Platt’s intention to create a space of joy and community amid turbulent times.
The residency’s early success reinforces Platt’s enduring appeal across both music and theater, and highlights the strong demand for intimate, live performances in Los Angeles.
What Happens Next?
Platt will continue his residency at the Ahmanson Theatre through December 21, with additional special guests expected throughout the run. As word spreads about the opening night’s emotional highlights and surprise moments, demand for the remaining shows is likely to intensify.
